HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC MINUTES 06091998 Meeting Sheet
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Box: 19
Folder. CC MINUTES AND AGENDAS 1998
Document: CC MINUTES 06091998
1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
3 JUNE 9, 1998
4 I. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL.
5 The meeting was called to order at 7:01 P.M. followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor
6 Ranallo.
7 II. ROLL CALL.
8 Councilmembers Present: Ranallo, Marks, Faust, Cavanaugh, and Thuesen.
9 Also Present: City Manager Mike Mornson.
10 Councilmembers Absent: None.
11 III. APPROVAL OF JUNE 9, 1998 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA.
12 Motion by Marks, second by Thuesen to approve the June 9, 1998 Regular Council Meeting
13 Agenda with the following changes:
14 Under V. Licenses/Permits/Petitions, add: A. Resolution 98-051,re: Approving the One Day
15 Activity Application for Charitable Gambling at the St. Anthony Villagefest.
16 Under VI. Presentation of Claims, add: E. Commissioner Mark Stenglien.
Under VII. Reports, add: 1. Resolution 98-049, re: Accepting a COPS Universal Hiring Program
Grant Award; and 2. Resolution 98-050, re: Authorizing the Hiring of Two Part-time Community
19 Service Officers.
20 Motion carried unanimously.
21 IV. APPROVAL OF MAY 26, 1998 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.
22 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve the May 26, 1998 Regular Council Meeting
23 Minutes as presented.
24 Motion carried unanimously.
25 V. LICENSES/PERMITS/PETITIONS.
26 Motion by Marks, second by Thuesen to approve the following licenses:
27 Heating Contractors License:
28 Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors Inc., Eden Prairie, MN/Renewal
29 Multiple Dwelling,License: (Renewal)
30 Equinox Apartments, 280.8 Silver Lane NE/ 266 Units
31 Apache Manor, 3817 Macalaster Drive/42 Units
32 Walker on Kenzie, 2626 Kenzie Terrace/45 Units
33 Autumnwoods Apartments, 2600 Kenzie Terrace/201 Units
0 Cameron Properties, 3721 Chandler Drive/ 12 Units
35 Motion carried unanimously.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 2
1 Motion by Faust, second by Thuesen to approve the following permit:
2 Temporary 3.2 Beer Park Permit:
3 Honeywell Picnic, Central Park, July 18, 1998, 4:00 - 8:00 P.M.
4 Voting on the motion: Ranallo, Faust, Cavanaugh, Thuesen voted aye. Marks voted naye.
5 Motion carried.
6 A. Resolution 98-051, re: Approving the One Day Activity Application for Charitable
7 Gambling at the St. Anthony Villa eg fest.
8 Motion by Thuesen, second by Faust to approve Resolution 98-051, approving the One Day
9 Activity Application for Charitable Gambling at the St. Anthony Villagefest.
10 Voting on the motion: Ranallo, Faust, Cavanaugh, Thuesen voted aye. Marks voted naye.
11 Motion carried.
IR VI. PRESENTATION OF CLAIMS.
Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve the following claims:
14 A. Legal and Prosecutions:
15 1. Dorsey& Whitney
16 a. In the amount of$225.00 for legal services rendered through April 30,
17 1998 in regard to acquisition of flood plain properties.
18 b. In the amount of$3,272.58 for legal services rendered through April 30,
19 1998 in regard to $725,000 General Obligation Improvement Bonds,
20 Series 1998A.
21 2. Foster, Wentzell, Hedback& Brever, LLC in the amount of$3,000.00 for the
22 month of May 1998.
23 B. 1998 Street Improvements:
24 1. Rieke Carroll Muller
25 a. In the amount of$1,100.20 for professional services rendered from March
26 29 to April 25, 1998 for 33'Avenue construction and outstanding invoice.
27 b. In the amount of$2,205.47 for professional services rendered from March
28 29 to April 25, 1998 for 1998 Street Improvements - Construction.
29 2. Moody's Investors Service in the amount of$4,375.00 for professional services
30 rendered in regard to $725,000 General Obligation Bonds.
31 C. Water Tower Restoration:
1. Rieke Carroll Muller in the amount of$4,800.00 for professional services
01 rendered from April 1 to April 30, 1998 in regard to Scoping Study.
34 D. 4 pages of Verified Claims as presented by the Finance Director.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 3
1 Motion carried unanimously.
2
3 E. Commissioner Mark Sten lien.
4 Commissioner Mark Stenglien thanked the Council and brought regards of thanks from
5 Hennepin County for the good property values and contributions St. Anthony makes to the
6 County.
7 Stenglien reported that the Hennepin County Jail is currently overcrowded. The Minneapolis
8 Code Force Strategy has made the situation even worse. He stated the County is committed to
9 providing service to the communities and is annexing space as far as Wright and Stearns
10 Counties. The current jail facility has-509 beds and has the booking facilities for 24,000 cases
11 per year. Last year the jail booked 48,000 cases and this year is projecting to exceed 54,000
12 cases. Stenglien reported that a new facility is on line. It will add.270 more detention beds
13 which can be double-booked. The booking capacity will be 88,000 cases per year. The cost of
14 the new Public Safety Facility is $96 million.
15 Stenglien reported the County is working on Welfare Reform. The County has 25% of the State
16 population and includes 60%of the welfare recipients in the State. There is a large section of
17 people who have never had to work before and the County is working to train these people in soft
0 skills to help them become employable.
19 Stenglien reported the development of a Light Rail System is in process. The route will start in
20 downtown Minneapolis in the Milwaukee Depot area, will make eight stops, travel under
21 Highway 61, stop under the baggage concourse at the International Airport, and proceed to the
22 Mall of America. Construction will begin at the end of 1998.
23 Stenglien reported that Hennepin County prevailed in the Garbage Haulers Lawsuit. The County
24 also continues to hold a AAA bond rating which they share with only five other counties in the
25 State. Stenglien stated he is committed to the City of St. Anthony and also to the St. Anthony
26 Library.
27 Mayor Ranallo thanked the Commissioner for the update and also for his work at the State
28 Capital with the City in regard to the flooding problem.
29 Stenglien stated the flooding issue was of personal interest to him as he grew up on Pahl Avenue.
30 Cavanaugh asked that as the Light Rail Transit develops, that the bus service be protected so that
31 both will be able to thrive. He also stated that at times it appears that the City exports more
32 funds to the County than they import.
Stenglien stated the Light Rail System will provide the "spokes" but the bus service will still
have to provide the connections. He commented that at times the City may export more funds
35 than they import. He stated that his office is always open for comments and ideas.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 9, 1998
Page 4
1 Marks thanked the Commissioner for his work on the Light Rail System and offered the best of
• 2 wishes for implementation.
3 Stenglien noted that the first phase of the Light Rail Transit would be the most difficult as it will
4 require building of all the maintenance sheds, etc. This is a 40 month project and he personally
5 is looking forward to it.
6 VII. REPORTS.
7 A. Report on Lead Contamination- Jane Hennessy.
. 8 Jane Hennessy stated she lives on 291 Avenue NE and is a graduate student in Nursing and
9 Public Health from the University of Minnesota. She explained that lead is eleven times heavier
10 than water and the death of one of every nine children is due to lead poisoning. Americans have
11 used lead in gasoline to make cars runs smoother, water pipes to make them more flexible and in
12 paint to make it last longer. Lead was not removed from paint until 1978. Exterior house paint
13 which is scraped and dropped contaminates the soil near a home.
14 Children are poisoned by eating lead paint dust and chips from their hands, toys and chewing
15 surfaces and from breathing in lead dust. Lead is absorbed by the red blood cells and moves
16 through the body entering the soft tissue and then entering the bones for long-term storage of up
0 to 30 years. A lead-poisoned pregnant woman could contaminate her fetus.
18 There are few clinical signs of lead poisoning. The only way to determine the poisoning is with
19 a venous puncture. If it registers 10 micrograms per deciliter it is considered positive.
20 Ms. Hennessy asked that the City publish an informational article in the newsletter which could
21 feature the telephone number of the Minnesota Health Department,how to obtain information on
22 lead, and how to perform safe home remodeling. She also requested that the City sponsor
23 educational activities,possibly seminars on lead-safe remodeling.
24 Mayor Ranallo asked Ms. Hennessy to submit an article to the City for inclusion in the next
25 newsletter.
26 Faust suggested Ms. Hennessy contact Kathy Knapp of Community Services in regard to a class
27 or seminar. This may be a better means of getting class information to the public.
28 Thuesen asked at what age it is not as dangerous to do remodeling in a home which contains lead
29 paint.
30 Ms. Hennessy stated children ages six and under are at the highest risk. A child's nutrition level
31 is also a factor.
10 Cavanaugh asked Ms. Hennessy if she included asbestos education in her work.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 5
1 Mary Shea, Public Health Nurse, stated she is only involved in the lead unit. The building
2 inspector generally addresses the asbestos in a home or building. She explained there is a test
3 available at Menards and Home Depot which will check the amount of lead in the home.
4 Cavanaugh questioned the results of soil testing for lead in residential areas.
5 Ms. Shea stated it depends on the location. There currently is testing being done in the City of
6 Minneapolis and the levels are slowly decreasing. She suggested that young children not play in
7 the dirt but play in pea gravel or on the grass.
8. The Council thanked Ms. Hennessy and stated they look forward to working with her.
9 B. Strategic Technology Plan for the City -NETLink International.
10 Art Carruth,NETLink, International, explained he had been contacted by the Finance Director
11 who defined the City's expectations for a strategic technology plan. He then performed a
12 technological assessment(an inventory of hardware and software) and a business assessment
13 (talking with department heads to determine specific needs and what they would like to see
14 implemented in the next 3-5 years).
Mr. Carruth called attention to the Executive Summary included in his report which laid out his
4P6 company's methodology. He then noted a diagram of the existing resources on page 6. He
17 stated that the City has made extremely wise purchases with a vision in place.
18 Mr. Carruth then noted a diagram of his recommendations on page 13. This proposal would
19 bring the three-four separate networks togther to utilize the system to its full potential, implement
20 a website, and provide proper training. He recommended that the City use CTV as their Internet
21 server. They will provide free service through 1998, have a good infrastructure and a good staff.
22 A representative of the City would sit on the Board of CTV and would have input into some of
23 the rates.
24 Mr. Carruth noted a spreadsheet which is basically a"shopping list" of items the City will need
25 to purchase for this proposal. The Finance Director is in the process of acquiring bids on the
26 merchandise. NETLink will install the equipment and provide ongoing support to the system
27 and the employees.
28 Thuesen complimented the proposal. He stated the network is crucial as the current system is
29 very fragmented. The proposed upgrades are very cohesive and easily ungradable. The plan is
30 set up to be a skeleton which will technically benefit the City for years to come. Thuesen stated
31 that the training is imperative and noted staff is at various levels of computer experience. He
32 then questioned if it would be more advantageous to utilize outsourcing for the network support
or to hire a part-time person for this position.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 9, 1998
Page 6
1 Mr. Carruth stated outsourcing could be utilized. Some cities are hiring an employee and sharing
2 their services with another city. This approach works extremely well as long as it is structured
3 and organized. The job objective needs to be predetermined and the employee needs to work
4 closely with the City designated Administrator.
5 Faust noted that outsourcing may be difficult based on need as the year 2000 approaches. He
6 noted a shared situation would result in an employee working for the City.
7 Marks stated the two reasons the system was necessary was to increase the productivity of the
8 City and provide better service to others. He noted it would be useful to have all the City
9 Ordinances in-a database. This database could be read-only, so that residents could also have
10 access to the Ordinances. He suggested a master schedule for a year or a series of years be
11 placed on the system which could include the budget process,Villagefest, Sister City events, etc.
12 This would provide more coordination between the various groups.
13 Cavanaugh expressed concern that the City was working with pieces in an effort to establish a
14 system. He asked if this proposal would establish a firm, cohesive base or if the City is merely
15 working with what they have to make it better but not quite ideal.
Mr. Carruth stated he is confident that his consultant evaluated the existing investment, looked at
7 the objectives and made recommendations to leverage off what existed and connect the system.
18 As he had stated earlier, the City has good equipment in place, it just needs to be connected
19 together.
20 Cavanaugh stated his confidence is low due to the police software system not working and the
21 problems with the liquor inventory system.
22 Mr. Carruth acknowledged the police department situation and stated his consultant had made
23 reference to the pain and frustration that existed at that level. He stated it is his job to remove
24 that pain and frustration. He is recommending a new hardware platform of the Microsoft NT
25 Network System.
26 Cavanaugh questioned the training included in the proposal.
27 Mr. Carruth stated one portion of training will be the administrative training to be certain that the
28 person running the network is comfortable. The end user training will be defined by the needs of
29 specific applications.
30 Mornson noted the training recommendations are included on page 12. NETLink has
31 recommended a company called Expertise Software Training. Staff will obtain a quote from
0 them. Staff is currently obtaining training through community services classes.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 9, 1998
Page 7
1 Cavanaugh asked if the Stonehouse was included in this proposal. He also asked if the Public
2 Work Department and all staff would be included.
3 Mr.,Carruth stated there are two liquor stores which will be interconnected. The City Manager
4 and Public Works Director will receive new computers, and two new computers will be located
5 at the Fire Department.
6 Faust asked if this system would be able to network and dial up Hennepin and Ramsey Counties.
7 He endorsed the use of a website for the City of St. Anthony.
8 Mayor Ranallo noted this capability will be available through Media One. Staff will also be able
9 to connect to the other ten cities included in the Cable Commission.
10 Mr. Carruth noted there are other technologies including I-Net which allow access to
11 municipalities, counties, state, libraries and universities. This is established through a fiberoptic
12 infrastructure along the major corridors. He stated he will keep the City updated as to the
13 progress.
14 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve Recommendation#1, that "Council direct staff to
proceed with the bidding and purchasing of the recommended hardware and software products
t (Estimated at $28,000)."
17 Motion carried unanimously.
18
19 Motion by Marks, second by Thuesen to approve Recommendations#2 and#3, that "Council
20 approve NetLink as the network installer per the specifications and recommendations of the
21 Strategic Plan (Estimated at$16,500)" and "Council approve NETLink to develop a preliminary
22 assessment for the Web-Site Development Project(Estimated at $500.00)."
23 Cavanaugh asked if the end user training should be added to this motion.
24 Mornson noted Council can direct Staff to get bids from providers recommended by NETLink.
25 Motion carried unanimously.
26 Cavanaugh questioned when the base-end training should occur.
27 Mr. Carruth stated the base end training should occur when the new system is implemented.
28 Cavanaugh stated that the employees need the training now.
0 Mr. Carruth recommended that if the system is not in place after 1-2 months, the training should
30 be done then.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 9, 1998
Page 8
1 Faust suggested that during the process of upgrading,the equipment might change. He
2 suggested the training be completed after the equipment is installed.
3 Cavanaugh asked why Dell equipment was not included in the bid.
4 Mr. Carruth acknowledged that Dell is a good company but stated that the consultant chose the
5 manufacturers based on longevity, warranty and perhaps personal preference.
6 Mr. Carruth explained that the System 36 has been evaluated and it has been determined that it
7 will support the City well in the near future. The Finance Director is planning to incorporate an
8 upgrade of the System 36 into the 1999 budget.
9 Motion by Cavanaugh, second by Marks that the remaining funds will be used for end-user
10 training modifications,the development of a Web-Site and the upgrade of the System 36 will be
11 deferred to 1999.
12 Motion carried unanimously.
13 Mayor Ranallo noted that cable funds may be available for this upgrade.
44 C. COPS Universal Hiring Program Grant Award -Police Chief Engstrom.
15 1. Resolution 98-049, re: Accepting a COPS Universal Hiring Program Grant
16 Award.
17 2. Resolution 98-050, re: Authorizing the Hiring of Two Part-time Community
18 Service Officers.
19 Police Chief Engstrom reported that in response to the Council's direction at last July 1997's
20 Budget work session, he looked into funding under the Federal grants available for hiring 2 new
21 police officers to increase the current authorized strength from twelve police officers to fourteen.
22 An application was made to the COPS Universal Hiring Program last November. On May 19,
23 1998, an award grant in the amount of$150,000 to cover half of the costs for the next three years
24 of salaries and benefits for two additional police officers was received.
25 Engstrom noted the Department has not added additional sworn personnel since 1988. Police
26 responsibilities due to mandates, public pressures, Supreme Court decisions, and training needs
27 have increased significantly. The scheduling of officers has been both difficult and trying for the
28 officers. The St. Anthony shifts have been run short during off-peak times to compensate.
29 However, the department was over 5,600 hours short personnel in 1998 due to vacations,
30 compensatory time, sick time, maternity leave, military leave, and training. Some shifts were
31 filled with overtime and juggling of officer's schedules at the cost of burn out and making for
32 unsafe work conditions.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 9
1 Engstrom stated that he would like to have more time available for officers to become more
2 community-oriented and being pro-active is the best way to keep the amount of crime to a
3 minimum.
4 Engstrom noted the second part of this request, is for two part-time Community Service Officers
5 (CSO's) to be added to the police department for a total of 40 hours per week. He stated he is
6 currently seeking a federal grant through "COPS More 98." This grant is solely for technology,
7 equipment or civilian personnel. The grant requires a commitment for retention and is a one year
8 grant in the amount of 75%of the cost. A CSO would free up officer time on the street and
9 provide 514 hours of police on the street.
10 Engstrom noted a survey which found only one suburb that did not utilize a CSO and also that
11 St. Anthony is the last Police Department to apply for involvement in the program.
12 Cavanaugh noted that on the application, the population was stated as 16,000.
13 Engstrom explained that number includes Falcon Heights and Lauderdale and is in response to
14 the population served. The new officers will be assigned solely to St. Anthony.
Cavanaugh noted that at the end of three years the cost will be $53,000 and will be 1.00%the
4t City's cost. He noted the application requires a plan to implement a program that is not currently
17 being performed.
18 Engstrom explained that the community-oriented activities are being done currently but there are
19 not enough of them being done. The Department is not as active and pro-active as he would like
20 it to be and this grant provides an opportunity to increase this.
21 Cavanaugh noted the categories in the application. He stated there are a number of new
22 programs which this funding motivates the community to look into. He stated he was in favor of
23 the part-time position and noted that there would be an impact on the productivity of the police
24 officers by the hiring of the CSOs. This program will strengthen the existing force at a low cost.
25 Marks stated there is a very compelling case for the addition of the two police officers. There are
26 not enough officers and it has been reported in the past that one means of controlling crime is to
27 enforce traffic laws. Marks commented that-the CSO who spent the night at the recent Senior
28 Class Party had the respect of the entire class.
29 Faust noted that Saturday, two young boys had told him they "just wanted to talk to Officer
30 Cotroneo". Faust commended the department for achieving this level of communication. He
31 stated he was in favor of the bike patrol and a school liaison. He totally supported the proposal
and encouraged the pro-active work.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
. June 9, 1998
Page 10
1 Thuesen stated the 2 part-time positions made sense as they would free up the valuable time of
2 the officers to use their expertise in-other areas. He encouraged establishment of a bike patrol
3 and community-oriented activities. He also expressed support of a school liaison and a drug task
4 force.
5 Engstrom noted that last year there were two officers trained in bike patrol on the Department but
6 both have since taken other positions. He hoped a bike patrol could be reestablished.
7 Mayor Ranallo expressed support for the community watch force and the school liaison. He
8 noted that the St. Anthony Police Department has not added any officers since 1988. Falcon
9 Heights and Lauderdale have both added full-time officers since they began working with St.
10 Anthony.
11 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve Resolution 98-049, re: accepting a COPS
12 Universal Hiring Program Grant Award.
13 Cavanaugh offered an amendment to the motion as follows: "Be it resolved that the 2 COP
14 positions will be committed to specific programs which would be new to the community and
15 which have outcomes.the Council can measure. The authority for the position would be for the
period of Federal Assistance or 3 years and would require City Council approval to continue the
'77 position without Federal Assistance".
18 Cavanaugh stated that the application deals with a new program that the community could not
19 previously initiate. The effort should be on something the community can see, evaluate, and at
20 the end of the grant period make a value judgement of whether it should continue with.
21 community resources.
22 Mayor Ranallo noted that the programs would not be new but would be an expansion of the
23 programs that currently exist.
24 Cavanaugh recommended that a sub-committee of the Council determine a new program in the
25 category of community partnership or problem solving activities.
26 Engstrom stated the St. Anthony Police Department is not a stranger to community-oriented
27 programs. The Department has trained 4 officers in the Crime Prevention Program, has sent half
28 of the department to the COPS program introduction, and has had numerous mandates over the
29 last ten years.
30 Mayor Ranallo asked if this was a friendly amendment to the motion.
Marks stated he was trying to see the friendly amendment portion. He noted the intent to
measure the effectiveness of the program but stated this is sometimes difficult to determine.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 11
1 Cavanaugh stated the measurement would be the safety of the community.
2 Engstrom stated this was not as accurate as people might think.
3 Cavanaugh stated that in July of 1997,the City also had the opportunity to just add to the police
4 force. The application for the grant is for a defined period to accomplish something, not just a
5 means to expand the police department.
6 Faust stated he was under the impression that it was the Federal Government's way of getting the
7 City Councils off the dime while putting more cops on the street.
8 Mayor Ranallo asked Engstrom if he could suggest a specific program that would be new to the
9 community which would have measurable outcomes.
10 Engstrom stated he could not answer yes to that question.
11 Thuesen stated he liked the ability to review the addition at the end of the three year period. He
12 did struggle with the requirements that this be a specific program which is new to the community
13 and measurements.
�4Cavanaugh suggested the measurement requirement be dropped.
15 Faust stated that the Police Chief by past performance, has proven his expert policing skills. The
16 Council's role is to provide philosophy and guidance. He stated that he is confident that the
17 Police Chief will provide the most efficiency for the money. He has not requested an increase to
18 the Department in 10 years even though the CUB has required a lot of resources. Faust
19 suggested the Council should not try to tie his hands and micro manage. Every year the budget
20 and the manpower is discussed and the Chief has a moral obligation to tell the Council exactly
21 what his department needs. To this date, there has been the ability to have this type of
22 relationship. Faust also stated he did not want to hire someone with the knowledge that in three
23 years they might not have a job. He felt the City may not obtain the best people under those
24 conditions. The City needs officers now in crime and prevention.
25 Cavanaugh stated he was looking at the physiological difference between increasing the number
26 of the force and applying for a grant program. The grant was not supposed to increase the force.
27 It is a specific program with specific requirements and he wanted to be certain that the
28 Department carry out the spirit of that grant.
29 Mayor Ranallo asked if Marks and Faust accepted the amendment to the original motion.
Cavanaugh stated it was intended to be a Motion to amend the original motion. Thuesen
seconded that motion.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 9, 1998
Page 12
1 Voting on the motion to amend: Cavanaugh and Thuesen voted aye. Ranallo, Faust and Marks voted
2 naye.
3 Motion failed.
4 Voting on motion to approve Resolution 98-049: Ranallo, Marks, Faust, Cavanaugh and Thuesen voted
5 aye.
6 Motion carried unanimously.
7 Motion by Marks, second by'Thuesen to approve Resolution 98-050, authorizing the hiring of
8 two part-time community service officers.
9 Mayor Ranallo asked if the CSOs would be uniformed and if they would be available at night to
10 help with the Neighborhood Crime Watch.
11 Engstrom stated they would be uniformed but they would be civilians,probably a reserve or just
12 out of school. They will work some days and some nights.
0 Cavanaugh verified that these positions do increase the productivity of the street force.
14 Engstrom stated they do. The CSOs cannot work the streets because they are not sworn officers
15 and do not have the power of arrest, but they can perform tasks which will free up officer time.
16 Motion carried unanimously
17 _
18 D. Councilmembers.
19 Faust reported he has been reappointed to the Improving Fiscal Futures Committee of the League
20 of Minnesota Cities. Meetings are scheduled for the summer and fall to allow the members to
21 bring the City interests and issues together to the Policy Committee for presentation to the
22 Legislature.
23 Thuesen reported his attendance at the St. Anthony/New Brighton Chemical Awareness Task
24 Force meeting on June 1, 1998. Shelly Freeman, Wellness Coordinator at the St. Anthony/New
25 Brighton Schools, set up the meeting. The meeting was well attended by people of diverse
26 backgrounds. There was a question and answer session with the Middle and High School
27 students and based on their comments, there is an issue with the use of alcohol, tobacco, and
28 drugs in the community. The meeting ended with the establishment of 7 sub-committees which
29 will take immediate action on various issues.
Thuesen reported his attendance at a St. Anthony Shopping Center Merchants meeting. There is
some concern by the group in regard to the old Town and Country building. The traffic flow has
32 been reduced and this has hurt the businesses. Also the Quarry Center has provided competition
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 9, 1998
Page 13
1 to the retail businesses. Thuesen.expressed concern that the planning process for that area move
2 quickly to provide the retailers with some answers. He was impressed with the commitment of
3 many of the retailers in that center and commended them for sticking with their business and
4 trying to make it work.
5 Mornson reported that the Planning Commission will be interviewing planners at their next
6 meeting and will make a recommendation to the Council on June 23, 1998. Mornson suggested
7 there may be some feedback by this fall. He noted that the St. Anthony Shopping Center tenants
8 were also aware of the request for the Conditional Use Permit for industrial use and have gone on
9 record by means of letter, in opposition.
10 Mayor Ranallo asked if the merchants were aware that the owner of the Shopping Center has it
11 on the market.
12 Thuesen stated they are aware of that.
13 Cavanaugh reported his attendance at an ACTION Board meeting this morning. They continue
14 to work on building assets and will continue to talk with the Council on these issues.
Cavanaugh reported he is working with the Canadian Pacific and the Main Pacific Railroad in
It regard to changing crews in the Fordham neighborhood. Although there are other options, they
17 are limited. There is also discussion of the installation of a chain-link fence in the area due to
18 concern of the children crossing the tracks. The residents are also requesting that the cul-de-sac
19 on Fordham be landscaped to buffer the residents from the Happy Potato Chip site.
20 Cavanaugh reported his attendance at a Best Practices meeting at the State Capital. The auditors
21 have just completed a best practice analysis of the 911 system and will now be addressing fire
22 protection service. This analysis will be completed early in 1999.
23 Cavanaugh reported his attendance at the Shelly Freeman meeting. There were 40 people in
24 attendance and 6 task forces were formed.
25 Mayor Ranallo asked the status of the railroad discussions.
26 Cavanaugh stated he would like to be the key contact in this issue. He noted the railroad
27 representatives have met with the citizens and there is an open communication.
28 Marks reported the Sister City Committee continues to work on its 501(c)(3) status.
29 E. Mayor.
Q0 Mayor Ranallo reported he had received a letter from Patty Saucer of the Silver Lake Home
1 Owners Association. The letter has been forwarded to City Manager.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 14
1 Mornson reported he has received her concerns in regard to the water management plan and they
2 have been submitted to WSB.
3 Mayor Ranallo reported that earlier this evening, Carol Jindra presented a letter to the Council
4 and asked the Mayor to read it this evening. The letter "thanked each of the Councilmembers for
5 their involvement in the Ice Cream Social Park meeting last week and noted that over 300 ice
6 cream sandwiches were distributed. Comments received over the past week were that people
7 enjoyed the event and the event was informative. City Staff was available and willing to help
8 and a special thank you to Jay Hartman."
9
10 F. Cil, Manager.
11 Mornson reported that the Metropolitan Council is delaying approval of the City's
12 Comprehensive Plan Update until the City adopts a resolution of intent to adopt a Storm Water
13 Management Ordinance. This Ordinance will require, among other things, that any new
14 development has to include a storm water management plan. It also addresses application of
15 fertilizer. The resolution will state that this will be adopted by December 31, 1998.
16 Faust asked if other cities have staff who inspect how the fertilizer is put down.
Mornson stated that WSB and other cities have stated they do not.
18 Faust questioned why the City would adopt a policy which they have no intention of enforcing.
19 He asked if this was mandated by the State or required by Federal law.
20 Mornson stated that the State Legislature in 1995, stated that all cities whose Comprehensive
21 Plan was 10 years or older had to develop a new Plan before the end of 1998. The Metropolitan
22 Council has used this as an opportunity to require certain items including a Comprehensive
23 Water Plan and a Storm Water Management Ordinance.
24 Faust asked who was in charge. He stated he did not mind the State passing laws but did mind
25 an agency for planning and coordinating telling the City what to do.
26 Cavanaugh stated he has read both ordinances and they are excellent. He suggested that lack of
27 enforcement in regard to fertilizer is not the problem. Residents have a responsibility to comply.
28 Mornson stated that it has been WSB's experience that a lot of cities are not enforcing the
29 ordinance but that a lot of the issues with fertilizer are common sense items. He stated he would
30 set up a meeting with a representative of the Metropolitan Council and have him do some
31 investigating.
�2 Mornson reported the public hearing for the proposed preliminary plan for Silver Point and
3 Central Park will be on the June 23, 1998 Council agenda. He stated he has already received six
34 calls from residents primarily near Silver Point Park.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 15
1 Emmett Swanson, 3020 Silver Lake Road, stated he has been a resident of the City of St.
2 Anthony for 30 years. He and his wife enjoy the neighborhood, have no intention of moving,
3 and are upset that the City's plan for their property includes a flood basin in their backyard. He
4 stated he has spoken individually with the Mayor, City Manager and Councilmember Cavanaugh
5 and informed them that he has no interest in selling the property. He would prefer that the plans
6 for his property stop. He noted that at the last meeting there was a resolution passed that
7 authorized the City Engineer and the Engineering Firm to acquire his property. He suggested
8 there are a number of people who should have been brought into the process earlier to determine
9 the viability of the plan. He noted a resolution for consideration this evening which talks about
10 the financial burdens and emotional trauma of the flood victims and stated he is now feeling this
11 burden and trauma over the acquisition of his land and having no input. He stated that at the last
12 meeting his land was identified as Problem Area#5. He asked what needed to be improved and
13 stated the plan was not an improvement but it was destruction.
14 Mayor Ranallo asked Mr. Swanson how many acres of property he owned behind his home and
15 when he purchased the property.
16 Mr. Swanson stated there is one acre of property which he mows, keeps well-groomed and uses
17 within the Ordinances of the City. He expressed concern that the City was telling him what he
had to do with his property. He purchased the property approximately 4-5 years ago from an
q19 absentee owner. He asked why his property is defined as Problem Area#5.
20 Cavanaugh explained that this is a misnomer. There is no problem with the property. 13 areas of
21 the City that play various roles in solving the water problem have been identified. Area#5 is
22 seen as part of the solution to the City's problem of water containment. The area has been
23 identified as a critical area to hold water for a critical amount of time and then let the water out.
24 Mr. Swanson noted this plan would bring storm water onto his land, his home, and then let the
25 sediment out in his yard, and eventually let the water move on.
26 Cavanaugh stated the neighbors have indicated that the property presently holds water during
27 heavy rains.
28 Mr. Swanson stated this is due to the inadequacy of the street. Water runs down his driveway
29 into the backyard.
30 Cavanaugh explained that this property is part of the solution to managing the storm water in the
31 City. It is hopeful that the property can be dealt with to expand its holding capacity. The
32 occurrences will not be frequent.
�3 Mr. Swanson stated the area is dry 99%of the time. It is wet during the spring.
34 Cavanaugh stated it will still be dry for Mr. Swanson.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 16
1 Mr. Swanson stated he did not believe Councilmember Cavanaugh.
2 Cavanaugh stated that is because Mr. Swanson has not had an opportunity to see the master plan.
3 Mr. Swanson stated he did not care about the master plan. The storm water will bring
4 contamination of dirt and grime into his yard and the grass will not grow.
5 Mayor Ranallo asked Mr. Swanson if he was open to listening to the engineer explain the plans
6 for the property.
7 Mr. Swanson stated he was not. He is an.Engineer by training himself and knows from
8 experience that there is nothing that can be done with a flood basin that he would be comfortable
9 with. He just wants the City to leave it the way it is because he enjoys it the way it is.
10 Marks explained that in 1991 the.City decided to perform a computer analysis of the rainfall that
11 simulated different levels of rain and where the water would flow. One thing that this study
12 showed is that the property owned by Mr. Swanson was a prime location for a temporary holding
13 pond so that the water will flow a little later and not overfill the system. This item has been on
4P5
14 the table for quite some time.
Mr. Swanson stated he has heard about the issue and read articles in the paper. He called the
16 City Manager and was told that if the plan was approved by the City Council and they were
17 planning to take his property, he would call Mr. Swanson. A couple of weeks ago his wife
18 received a call stating that it was discussed at a Council meeting that they may take his property.
19 After further discussion with the City Manager, Mr. Swanson stated he was led to believe that if
20 he did not agree to sell his property, the City would consider condemning his property. Mr.
21 Swanson again stated fighting this is a financial burden and a traumatic emotional experience and
22 that he did not see City government at work very well with these attitudes. He asked if the City
23 was willing to condemn his property to obtain it.
24 Mornson stated he had never threatened Mr. Swanson with condemnation of his property. Mr.
.25 Swanson had contacted the City and asked what the process would be. Morrison stated he had
26 explained that the Engineer is putting together a plan of how the area will look once the ponding
27 is in place for Problem Area#5. A neighborhood meeting will then be held for negotiation of the
28 acquisition of several properties in the area. Mr. Swanson had then questioned the process if he
29 refused to sell his land and Mornson stated he had answered that Staff would then ask the City
30 Council if they want to take a next step which would be to authorize the City law firm to begin
31 condemnation proceedings. This is the typical process in a public improvement project.
32 Mr. Swanson stated he did not want to sell his property. He asked that the City just leave him
alone.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 17
1 Marks noted there were quite a number of people who received a tremendous amount of damage
2 from flooding last summer.
3 Mr. Swanson stated he understood this but his property was high and dry. He had no problems
4 and yet the City wants him to pay by means of financial, time, energy and emotion. He
5 questioned the fairness of this.
6 Cavanaugh explained that a citizen Task Force has worked an extended amount of time on this
7 issue. The City is in the process of acquiring five homes and some of those homeowners do not
8 want to sell. He stated he understood the human element of Mr. Swanson's issue. However,the
9 City Council has approved the process and is moving forward with the process. He stated he
10 hoped that the City would not have to condemn the property and could arrive at an agreement
11 that is fair. The City and the community is committed to this plan.
12 Mr. Swanson stated that his neighbors knew nothing about this process until he spoke with them.
13 He asked how the community could be committed to this when they know nothing about it.
14 Mayor Ranallo stated the Council understood Mr. Swanson's dilemma. He stated that Mr.
15 Swanson will be kept informed and asked him to attend the meetings in regard to this issue. He
stated the City will look at all alternatives.
17 Mr. Swanson challenged the City to challenge the Engineer to find another way. He stated there
18 is other property in the City which.is vacant and suggested that a holding pond be placed at the
19 Stonehouse.
20 Mayor Ranallo explained that the Engineer had looked at Mr. Swanson's property as being
21 vacant. The Council is now aware of Mr. Swanson's feelings and will inform the Engineer.
22 Morrison reported that Park Commission candidates will be interviewed at the June 30, 1998
23 work session. There was Council consensus to begin the meeting at 6:00 P.M. and begin the
24 interviews at 7:00 P.M.
25 Morrison noted the proposed project schedule for the St. Anthony Boulevard sidewalk
26 reconstruction project. He noted that he, the Public Works Director and the Engineer visited the
27 site and noticed there is a piece of asphalt on Kenzie Terrace and repair needed in front of the
28 Amoco building. City Manager directed that these items be included in the bid and they will be
29 covered by State Aid funds. A neighborhood meeting will be held in July and bids will open on
30 July 28, 1998. He noted that the variance which was granted for the width of the road is still
31 valid.
2 Morrison reported the 331 Avenue project will begin on Monday, June 15, 1998. The bids for
3 the water tower reconstruction are due on June 18 and will be included on the June 23 Council
34 agenda.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• June 9, 1998
Page 18
1 Mornson reported that construction of the tennis courts is moving ahead nicely. The City has
2 received many compliments on the play area behind the City Hall building. The City has also
3 received compliments in regard to the courtesy and communication of the engineering and
4 construction firm of the street project on 34'Avenue.
5 Morrison reported that Decision Resources is in the field performing the survey. Although no
6 one has refused the survey, they are having a difficult time finding people at home. They hope to
7 complete the process by the end of the month and will then give a presentation to the Council
8 jointly with the School Board.
9 Cavanaugh asked when the-concept of a moratorium in regard to the shopping center should be
10 introduced. He noted it may have an impact on a Conditional Use Permit.
11 Mornson stated he would ask the City Attorney if a moratorium of this type was legal.
12 VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS -None.
13 IX. NEW BUSINESS.
14 A. Resolution 98-047,re: Acknowledge Assistance in Getting; Flood Funding
Motion by Marks, second by Cavanaugh to approve Resolution 98-047, acknowledging efforts
q'6 made in pursuit of funding assistance for flood mitigation in St. Anthony Village.
17 Motion carried unanimously.
18 B. Resolution 98-048, re: Approve I/I Loan Agreement with Metropolitan Council.
-19 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve Resolution 98-048, authorizing the Mayor and
20 City Manager to enter into a loan agreement with the Metropolitan Council.
21 Motion carried unanimously.
22 C. Certification of Local Performance Measures.
23 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve certification of Local Performance Measures for
24 Local Performance Aid payable in 1999..
25 Motion carried unanimously.
26 X. UNFINISHED BUSINESS.
27 A. Ordinance 1998-008, re: Fees for Gasoline Service Stations (3rd Reading).
28 Motion by Faust, second by Marks to approve the 3`a reading and adoption of Ordinance 1998-
29008, relating to fees for Gasoline Service Stations; amending Section 615.06 of the 1993 St.
00 Anthony Code of Ordinances.
31 Motion carried unanimously.
4 A
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
June 9, 1998
Page 19
1 B. Ordinance 1998-009,re: Parks Commission(3rd Reading)
2 Motion by Cavanaugh, second by Marks to approve the 3'reading and adoption of Ordinance
3 1998-009,re: establishing a Parks Commission by adding Section 306 to the 1993 Code of St.
4 Anthony Ordinances.
5 Motion carried unanimously.
6 XI. ADJOURNMENT.
7 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to adjourn the meeting at 10:06 P.M.
8 Motion carried unanimously.
9
10 Respectfully submitted,
11 Lorri Kopischke
12 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
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13
14 ayor
15 ATTEST:
16 City Clerk
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